Connecting the Dots with Upstate Business and Education





Linda Gallicchio



A common thought: there are pockets of good work, that if connected, can create so much more change and innovation than if continued separately. Towards that goal of connection for synergy, communication is key. Recently I’ve participated in several events that have brought together people from different sectors to start such dialogue. The Rutland Institute’s interest and contribution lies in its overriding goal to assist in nurturing ethical behavior in the various business and life communities. A brief overview of the several “connecting” opportunities follows.

More than 30 participated in the May 26th event “Elevating Ethics in Upstate Business and Education” at Clemson at the Falls, co-sponsored by the Greenville Regional Education Center, Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. and the Rutland Institute for Ethics. Jan Murdoch, Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Studies at Clemson addressed the group from the education perspective. Debra Clements, Sr. VP and General Counsel for Milliken & Company spoke from the business perspective. Goals of the working session:

• Discuss and define workforce needs in the area of ethical decision-making
• Share knowledge of existing programs and resources that are or can be used to meet those needs
• Network to foster collaborations and create additional momentum

 Work groups spent time answering these questions and presenting their thoughts to the larger group. A document, representing a synthesis of the work session products is in process and will be included in a video of program highlights. We will share more in the next issue.

In a broader vein, on July 22nd, the Leadership Anderson class #26 facilitated an Anderson Business/Education Partnership Summit that brought together over 50 participants from the Anderson school districts, businesses, higher education, civic and non-profit organizations to discuss what businesses need in prospective employees and what schools need to properly prepare students. Bob Geolas, Director of CU-ICAR was the keynote speaker. His message was one that applies across the board: there must be routine communication among the various sectors to understand each other’s needs and develop partnerships to accomplish the larger visions that address the greater good in the community. He stressed that it does not happen overnight, but takes persistence and commitment over time.

The three Regional Education Centers (RECs) http://personalpathways.sc.gov/greenvillecounty (Greenville) http://personalpathways.sc.gov/pendletondist (Pendleton) http://personalpathways.sc.gov/upstate (Upstate) had roles in both events and strive to “connect the dots” across the Upstate. Through the RECs’ Pathways to Success program, area businesses connect with schools on career understanding and readiness. Microburst Learning, http://www.microburstlearning.com/ a Columbia-based company, has been working with Pathways on an innovative way to help high school students across the state better understand career opportunities and educational requirements through the creation of Virtual Job Shadow (VJS) profiles. To start, these interactive online profiles are being developed for jobs within the 16 identified career clusters within South Carolina. The Rutland Institute is partnering with the RECs to connect Microburst Learning with Upstate employers towards the goal of securing more sponsorships to produce VJS profiles. The Rutland Institute for Ethics and the Pearce Center for Communication are conversation with Microburst Learning to determine the best approaches to incorporate lessons and messages on ethical judgment, critical thinking, teamwork and communication. These have been historically referred to as “soft skills”, and there is growing appreciation for their importance and the societal need to insure they are developed in our children.

Good things are percolating across the Upstate. Conversation is occurring about how we can better partner to improve the education of our future workforce, in spite of dwindling state funding and economic conditions. This is not a short-term quick fix. It requires a long-term vision and passion to see through to achieving it. It is heartening as more and more often our various groups are overlapping in interests, connecting on ideas, and partnering to innovate. We just may be onto something! Let us know if you have something related to share.

Linda Gallicchio, Associate Director-Outreach

Rutland Institute for Ethics